Magpie-swooping season is here. But you can avoid attack – if you play by their rules

From donning ‘pie-proof’ bike helmets to conversing with the songbirds, the key to avoiding avian conflict might be learning to speak their language, experts say Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastDown a gravel track in the backblocks west of Ipswich ride six middle-aged women. Their bikes are black, their shorts and exercise tops nondescript – but strapped atop their helmets are party hats.“You know those little cone hats you used to wear as a kid